The 2015 Chocolate Block is a blend of 71% Syrah, 15% Grenache, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cinsault and 1% Viognier. Previous vintages have been Western Cape, this being the first W.O. to be Swartland. It has an attractive blackberry, cedar and dark chocolate scented bouquet, strangely the Cabernet Sauvignon making a big impression upon the Syrah. The palate is medium-bodied and quite austere compared for this label, tightly wound at first with a slightly attenuated finish. I was just seeking more substance and body on the finish that tapers off a little quickly.

The 2014 Chocolate Block Franschhoek will be the last vintage whose designation is Western Cape, as they can source sufficient fruit from Swartland. A blend of 73% Syrah, 12% Grenache, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cinsault and 1% Viognier, it has a more reserved bouquet compared to recent vintages, with tertiary/clayey scents infusing the red berried fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannin, quite saline on the entry with a dash of bell pepper on the finish.

An old-school style, with signed alder, coffee and sweet earth notes peeking out from the core of steeped plum and black currant fruit. The slightly rugged finish lets loam and tobacco hints squeeze through. Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache, Cinsault and Viognier. Drink now through 2016. 6,800 cases imported.??–JM??Region: South Africa / Western Cape Select to Add